Posts Tagged ‘ commercial masonry ’

Stonemasonry Signs Send Solid Signals

Monday, March 2nd, 2015

Your Baltimore business has been doing well since it started, and an important anniversary is coming up. Celebrate your business’ anniversary with a stonemasonry business sign. A stonemasonry business sign sends solid signals to your employees, customers, and competitors. A stonemasonry sign tells them you’re strong, smart, and that you’re here to stay.

Stonemasonry Signs Signal Strength

A stonemasonry sign shows your business is strong in a couple of ways. A stone sign shows your employees that you believe in their solid performance. A stone sign shows your customers and investors that you have a strong commitment to quality. And finally, it shows competitors that your company is financially secure enough to afford the expense of a stone sign. The strength your stone masonry sign projects will make your employees and customers confident, and intimidate your business competitors.

Stonemasonry Signs Signal Smarts

Stonemasonry signs signal smarts to employees, customers, business allies, and competitors alike. Your new stonemasonry sign shows your employees your business smarts, as eye catching stonemasonry signage is sure to instill confidence in your customers. Your signage shows your customers and business partners, that you know the importance of branding and making a statement. Finally it shows your competitors your smart, because they know business is an arms race, and that by getting a stonemasonry sign you’ve stepped up your game. They’ll have to get a similar sign or fall behind, and because you got it first your customers will see your competitors getting it as playing catch-up.

Stonemasonry Signs Signal Staying Power

Finally, stonemasonry signs let everyone know that you’re here, and plan to stay. Stonemasonry stands up to the worst of weather, physical wear and tear, and lasts for centuries. Though your stonemasonry sign is expensive to begin with, it will pay for itself over the years because of its lasting power. It needs very little maintenance, is easy and fast to clean, and won’t need to be replaced in your lifetime. A stonemasonry sign will let everyone know your confident of your business, and that you’re not going anywhere but up.

Stonemasonry Signs from Del Prete Masonry

Your sign is one of the first things that people see when they approach your business. Your signs tell customers what kind of business you are. If you want your customers to know that you’re a serious business, dedicated to quality, and are here to stay you need to invest in a stonemasonry sign. But don’t just go to anyone, your stonemasonry should look professional and beautiful. Let Del Prete Masonry help! Please contact our office today at 410-683-0650 or email us at mike@delpretemasonry.com to get an estimate for your new commercial stone sign. We’re located out of Phoenix, MD and serve Baltimore City, County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. Keep up with our blog for masonry related information, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.

Posted in Stone Masonry

Advantages of Stone Masonry For Buildings

Monday, February 16th, 2015

If you’re considering new commercial or residential construction get some stones and go with stone masonry for your project. Stone is more durable, long lasting, and better looking then anything else out there. Use stone masonry in your new construction and don’t just build a property, but build a property of value, that will last lifetimes.

Durable, Strong, Weather Resistant

No construction material is as durable, strong, or weather resistant as stone. Stone is hardly affected by the normal day to day actions that leave wear and tear on other construction materials. You might accidentally dent a plaster wall while moving furniture. Or scratch wood, or bend vinyl. Stone does not warp, swell, bend, splinter, or dent. And to chip or scratch stone you have to try pretty hard. Stone stand up against the blows of a sledgehammer better then concrete does. And wind, rain, hail, sleet, and snow do not bother stone in the slightest.

Long Lasting

Because of its strength, durability, and ability to weather weather stone lasts for a long time. The oldest human structures still standing are made from stone masonry. If you want a construction material that will stand the tests of weather and time, you build with stone. If you want your home or place of business to be an institution that you can pass onto your children, and their children’s children, you build with stone.

Aesthetic Appeal

Stone is versatile in its aesthetic appeal and can work well with other construction materials. It can be imposing, grandiose, dignified, and impressive, but it can also be warm, welcoming and homely. However, whether you’re building an extravagant cathedral, a solid bank, or a cozy stone cottage, stone is dependable. No other construction material makes a statement like stone. One that say’s you’re here and you intend to stay.

Stone Masonry From Del Prete Masonry

At Del Prete Masonry we have the expertise to build, restore, and care for all types of residential and commercial masonry, especially those utilizing stone masonry. We’re here to help you plan and build the stone masonry structure that fits your needs, with quality materials and service.

To find out more about your masonry options and building with stone masonry, please contact our office today at 410-683-0650 or email us at mike@delpretemasonry.com. We serve Baltimore City, County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. Keep up with our blog for masonry related information, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.

Posted in Stone Masonry

Signs You Have a Bad Masonry Foundation

Friday, January 9th, 2015

Foundation

Your home’s masonry foundation is incredibly important to its long-term survival. Without a solid foundation, you’re home or business will swiftly crumble and sink into the ground. That’s why it’s important to be on the lookout against foundation damage. Foundation damage is typically caused by moisture and will manifest in a number of ways. Del Prete Masonry is here to help with some of the most common signs of a bad foundation.

Crooked Windows and Doors

Door and window installers do their utmost to put in their wares so that they’re completely level. If they start to move out of alignment, it’s most likely because your masonry foundation has started to move. If your doors and windows become very difficult to open and close, or even show signs of damaged glass, it’s highly likely that the foundation in that region of the house has started to go bad.

Cracked Walls and Sloped Floors

If the level of your home’s floor starts to change, it’s almost certain that the foundation beneath it has started to settle, however this can be difficult to notice, especially with carpet. If your floors are uncarpeted, try dropping a marble and seeing if it rolls in an area you thought was flat. A sinking masonry foundation may prompt the developing of cracks in your drywall, particularly drywall near windows and doors. Be sure to look out for ejected drywall screws/ nails and baseboard gapping.

External Cracks/ Wall Bulges

While minute cracks are not unusual in masonry foundations, walls, and footers, be on the lookout for large, patterned cracks that seem to keep growing. If you see clearly rectangular patterns of cracks in your foundation masonry, or you notice unusual bulges in the foundation walls, the ground beneath it could be shifting. It’s also worth paying attention to your masonry chimney, if you spot cracks or damage on it, the frame of your house could be unstable.

Misc. Signs

Oftentimes, a masonry foundation will be set on top of posts and beams, if an inspector finds that these are leaning, the house has probably changed its position. If you spot water underneath your house or find that the ground seems wet on one face of it but dry on another, you could have drainage problems that need fixing. Taking care of these issues can nip masonry foundation damage in the bud.

Need To Repair Your Masonry Foundation?

Call Delprete Masonry. As Maryland’s foremost experts on masonry repair, construction, and demolition, our skilled teams have what it takes to quickly and accurately assess your masonry foundation for any problems or structural weaknesses and can offer fast and affordable repairs. Your house is your most prized possession and a masonry foundation is one it’s most important systems, so why not take good care of it?

To find out more about your masonry repair options, please contact our office today at 410-683-0650 or email us at mike@delpretemasonry.com. We serve Baltimore City, County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. Keep up with our blog for masonry related information, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.

Posted in Blog, Commercial Masonry Baltimore

Benefits of Building with Marble in Maryland

Friday, October 3rd, 2014

A metamorphic rock that varies widely in density, patterning, and color, “marble” is derived from the Greek word marmaros, which means “shining stone.” Though typically thought of as a material for countertops and sculpture, marble has many practical applications in commercial masonry as well. Some of the stone’s uniquely beneficial properties are:

Permanence

The chief advantage of marble construction is in the material’s durability and strength. Constructing any structure, monument, or building with marble assures that it will last a long time and maintain its beautiful appearance. When building with marble you can be sure that you are not just building a permanent fixture for your business, but also for many businesses and people who will use it after your lifetime, making marble a wise choice for the environmentally conscious.

Versatility

Marble has a wide variety of applications within commercial masonry and can be used to build countertops, flooring, bars, tables, steps, monuments, and even entire buildings. Building with marble assures that whatever you choose to construct, your masonry will have a permanent and unique beauty, unrivaled by almost any other construction material.

Fire Resistance

While building with marble may prove more expensive initially than other materials, marble’s extreme heat and fire resistance ensures that, in the unfortunate event of a fire or other heat related disaster, your structure will remain standing strong. Many Maryland insurance companies will offer lower premiums, especially on fire insurance, to commercial masonry that utilizes marble construction.

Low Maintenance

Using Marble construction in commercial masonry also guarantees easy maintenance. Marble is very easy to clean, often just requiring a quick rinse and wipe to eliminate most stains or clinging debris. Additionally, and unlike many other construction materials, marble will never require painting and re-painting, saving time and expense over its very long lifecycle.

Do You Need Marble Construction/ Restoration?

At Del Prete Masonry we have the expertise to build, restore, and care for all types of residential and commercial masonry, especially those utilizing marble construction. We’re to here to help you plan and build the marble (or any other kind of stone) structure that fits your needs, with quality materials and service.

To find out more about your masonry options and building with marble, please contact our office today at 410-683-0650 or email us atmike@delpretemasonry.com. We serve Baltimore City, County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. Keep up with our blog for masonry related information, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.

Sources: ezinearticles.com, ElegantNatural-Hubpages

Posted in Blog, Marble

Tips for Finding a Commercial Masonry Restoration Company

Monday, September 29th, 2014

When looking for a masonry restoration expert to tackle your commercial masonry project, it’s important to thoroughly vet candidates with a detailed selection process. While it’s easy to rely on online review services like Angie’s List, or browsing through union membership lists, these won’t guarantee finding a commercial masonry expert who will fit your needs, and it can be hard to tell if an online review is paid for, or by someone whose opinion you can trust. Consider these steps when looking for a masonry restoration expert that fits you.

Consult Friends and Family

Often more reliable, and more aware of your personal needs than the internet are friends and family members. Check with them, or with trusted business associates, to see if they’ve ever needed masonry restoration done for their homes and businesses. You can also check nearby stone supply companies, which contractors will visit regularly. The staff at the supply facility will be able to point you in the direction of the companies that buy the best materials and pay their bills on time.

Phone and Face-to-Face Interviews

Write up a list of the most qualified-looking companies, and make a quick phone call to their offices. Ask them if they take on the type and size of project you’re looking to start, if they’ll provide financial and personal references, a previous client list, and how long they’ve worked with their subcontractors. Using these answers you can narrow down your list further and set up an in-person meeting. When meeting a potential commercial masonry restorer, trust your gut. If they put you ill at ease, have unusual stipulations, or try to pressure you into making a deal on the spot, cross them off your list. However don’t be bamboozled by flashy personalities either and make sure that they are in good standing with the Consumer Protection Bureau, and the Better Business Bureau as well.

Investigate

Spend some time checking with past clients and examining completed restoration projects. If you can, find a current site their working on and pay them a surprise visit to see if restoration is being done it what looks like a timely and efficient manner.

Get Bids

With your shortlist in hand, present your proposed masonry project to the potential clients. Don’t automatically accept the cheapest bid, particularly if the company wants most of costs up front. Low bidders and companies that require more than 50% in advance are frequently desperate for cash, and may suspect you won’t want to pay them upon completion, or they may go out of business before the job finishes.

Looking for the best? Need Additional Help?

For other questions regarding commercial masonry restoration, feel free to contact Delprete Mansonry. Our masonry restoration professionals have the experience and history of satisfied clients to prove that we’ll get the job done right, and cost-effectively. To get started with your commercial masonry restoration project, please contact our office today at 410-683-0650 or email us at mike@delpretemasonry.com. We serve Baltimore City, County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. Keep up with our blog for masonry related information, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.

Source:

This Old House

Posted in Blog, Commercial Masonry Baltimore

Caring for your Brick Masonry Structure

Monday, September 22nd, 2014

One of the most popular building materials for centuries, brick masonry is used from everything from stately colonial mansions or small country cottages, to dignified commercial structures. Its versatility, efficiency, and appearance all contribute to raising the property and aesthetic value of your home. While generally maintenance free, it’s still important to take care of your brick structures to assure that your commercial masonry investment is protected and their longevity is being leveraged to its maximum potential.

Cleaning

Once a year, be sure to go over your brick masonry with a hose, equipped with a spray nozzle, to remove any loose dirt. Also if any side of your brick masonry structure or house gets very little sunlight you should be on the lookout for moss, mold, or mildew growth. Scrubbing any affected areas with a solution of 1cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water will clean most of this up. Avoid using wire brushes that can scratch or damage brick and be sure to rinse these areas with water BEFORE applying the bleach solution.

Check for Water Damage

Water damage to brick masonry has two potential causes: Splash back and rising damp. Splash back is the process by which rain, over a long period of time, is slowly absorbed into brick causing the mortar or brick itself to crack. Rising damp occurs when ground water seeps upwards, leaving behind what is known as a “tide line”. This line will disappear but will cause a buildup of salt crystals that will ultimately break down brick and mortar. Check for water damage routinely and allocate funds for repointing every 5-10 years.

Repointing

Repointing is the process of renewing the external parts of mortar joints, which hold brick masonry structures together. If you find signs of damaged mortar, consider having it repointed. This involves careful removal of the existing mortar, and a fresh application of a new batch. When repointing, the depth of the new mortar should be approximately twice the width of the existing mortar joints.

If you own an older house and want to preserve visual integrity, make sure that your fresh mortar matches the original. A contractor can take a sample of existing mortar and dissolve it in acid, exposing the base sand aggregate used to manufacture it, so that it can be replicated.

Get Help from Del Prete Masonry

Brick is a great foundation for any building, and as commercial masons, we can fully appreciate the benefits of brick. If you need your commercial masonry repaired, please contact our office today at 410-683-0650 or email us at mike@delpretemasonry.com. We serve Baltimore City, County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. Keep up with our blog for masonry related information, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.

Source: bobvilia.com

Posted in Blog, Brick, Commercial Masonry Baltimore

Caring for Your Granite Masonry

Friday, September 5th, 2014

If you’ve already chosen granite to take advantage of the wide benefits of employing granite for your commercial masonry project then you’re familiar with its versatility, long term durability, and classic style. However, to ensure your granite surface’s long-term stability it’s important to know the key components of long-term granite care.

Because natural stone is highly porous, it’s important to coat any granite surface with a protective water sealant, which will fill in pores and help prevent long term water damage. It’s also important to clean spills of granite surfaces quickly. It’s a crucial part of granite care to control moisture, as much as possible, in any indoor areas with granite flooring

It’s important to clean granite surfaces with a dry mop, or duster at least once a day. This will clear away does and prevent small particles from working their way into the surface’s pores. When performing more thorough cleaning, only use an approved granite cleaner and take special care to avoid using any abrasive cleaners, bleach, or normal detergents.

When placing hardened objects, such as furniture or pots and pans, be sure to use a protective cloth or buffer material. While granite masonry is very sturdy, it’s important to protect it from scratches or gashes which will ultimately decrease the stability and longevity of your commercial masonry.

For other questions regarding granite for commercial masonry, feel free to contact Delprete Mansonry. Our Maryland granite professionals will be able to assist you in choosing which type of granite is best for your upcoming project. To get started with your commercial masonry project, please contact our office today at 410-683-0650 or email us at mike@delpretemasonry.com. We serve Baltimore City, County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. Keep up with our blog for masonry related information, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.

Source

http://www.baneclene.com/articles/granite.html

Posted in Blog, Commercial Masonry Baltimore

Concretes Uses in Commercial Masonry

Thursday, August 28th, 2014

There are a few different materials that have been used for centuries by builders. Concrete is one of them, though it has changed and been improved upon over the years. Concrete is a material that we still use frequently for masonry projects. It’s used as a foundation for homes and businesses, as a material for signs and statues, and even for roads and sidewalks. One of the best things about concrete is its versatility. Concrete can be used for nearly any masonry project. When you think of concrete, you probably think gray, drab, and boring – but concrete has become so much more than that. With new innovations and the ability to mix colors into concrete, it has become a great, aesthetically pleasing material to work with. That’s certainly not the only benefit of using concrete, though.

Why We Still Use Concrete for Masonry

Sustainability – This probably wasn’t a reason for using concrete hundreds of years ago, but it’s certainly a reason that we use it now. Producing concrete results in very few carbon dioxide emissions. The majority of carbon dioxide emissions from a concrete building actually come from the electricity used inside the building. Concrete also has reflective qualities that help keep it cool, resulting in less of an “urban heat island” problem when concrete is used in place of aggregate in cities.
Durability – When we build a structure, we want it to last. Concrete structures have been known to last for centuries if they’re taken care of. Some concrete structures date all the way back to the Roman Era. Concrete is used for bridges, tunnels, and dams – all structures that require the strongest material available. When we use concrete, we know we’re using something that stands the test of time and pressure.
Low maintenance – If you’re like most people, you don’t want to spend a lot of time taking care of your building or masonry structure. Concrete is relatively low maintenance and doesn’t attract mold or deteriorate simply because of time. Weather can wear it down, but there are precautions that you can take to keep your concrete structure standing and intact. It’s easy to take care of and will last you a lifetime.

Building with Concrete

While there are many other materials that we use at Del Prete Masonry, we’re not about to abandon concrete anytime soon. It has proven its worth many times over and we know that we can bring you a solid masonry structure when you choose concrete. To find out more about your masonry options including concrete masonry, please contact our office today at 410-683-0650 or email us at mike@delpretemasonry.com. We serve Baltimore City, County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. Keep up with our blog for masonry related information, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.

Sources: WBCSD Cement, CBDG

Posted in Blog, Commercial Masonry Baltimore

The Benefits of Stone Masonry Signs for Commercial Use

Friday, July 25th, 2014

Are you getting tired of seeing the same signs for just about every business? You know the ones I’m talking about. The big plastic signs with lights behind them to make them easier to see at night. The ones everyone has. Not that there’s anything wrong with those signs, but there are options that will last longer, not wear as fast, and will look better outside of your business. If you’re a Baltimore local, you’ve probably seen some of the superior signs that we’re talking about – the ones outside of Johns Hopkins University or M&T Bank Stadium. Signs made of stone will always last longer than signs made of plastic.

Why Choose A Stone Masonry Sign?

Well, the better question is why not choose one, but we’ve got a list of the top reasons to choose stone masonry over your other options.

Sustainable – If you’re like most other people, you’re probably looking for an option that will be both environmentally friendly and economically friendly. Stone is a sustainable option because it is natural. Your sign will fit in better with the environment around it and look earth friendly. Plus, it’s going to last you a lot longer than a big plastic sign, meaning it’ll ultimately save you money.
Aesthetic – This goes almost without saying, but we thought we’d mention it, because it’s the biggest benefit of choosing commercial stone masonry over plastic. Choosing brick or natural stone for your business’ sign will give you a leg up on your competition. It makes it clear that you take your business seriously and, like the natural stone you’re using, you’re there to stay. Natural stone is professional and attractive.
Options – You have dozens of options when you choose natural stone. You can choose the color, pattern, type of stone, and finish that works best for you. Then we’ll work with you to help come up with a design that will reflect your business. Every piece of natural stone is unique and every sign is a little bit different. We’ll give you all of the pros and cons of the different types of stone and help you figure out what you prefer to work with. In the end, you’ll have your perfect sign.

Stone Masonry Signs from Del Prete Masonry

Your sign is one of the first things that people see when they approach your business. It should look professional and beautiful. Let us help! Please contact our office today at 410-683-0650 or email us atmike@delpretemasonry.com to get an estimate for your new commercial stone sign. We’re located out of Phoenix, MD and serve Baltimore City, County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. Keep up with our blog for masonry related information, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.

Sources: Natural Stone Council, Classic Design Stone

Posted in Blog, Commercial Masonry Baltimore

Building Brick by Brick in Commercial Masonry

Thursday, July 17th, 2014

There are some things that have been done right for centuries. Much of masonry lives up to that standard. People have been building things since the dawn of the human race and a lot of their materials have come with them. Brick, for instance, is one of the most consistently used materials in history. We’ve discovered brick structures that date back more than 5,000 years ago. If you’re keeping track, that was about 3,000 years BCE. That’s pretty impressive when you think about it. Brick making is a little bit different today, but it has its roots in ancient practices.

How Bricks are Made

Bricks are made from natural, raw materials, which is one of the reasons that they’re still a popular masonry option. Brick is usually made from a clay compound – think red clay in the southern parts of the US. The raw materials are first mixed together to get the base product. They then go through an extrusion process where the materials are mixed with water and molded into the traditional rectangular “brick shape.” Many bricks then have a furrowed area carved in to make them easier to work with when paving. They’re coated with sand, dried, and then fired. The firing process makes the bricks stronger. Once the bricks are cooled, they’re packaged and manufactured.

What Benefits do Bricks Offer?

Durability – Bricks are a great option to use in the Mid-Atlantic area because they can stand up to just about any weather extreme that they’re pitted against. If you’ve lived here for a while, you know that we get everything from blizzards to hurricanes in this part of the country. It’s important to use durable materials that will outlast Mid-Atlantic weather extremes.
Good Insulation – We’re not telling you not to insulate your building. Far from it. We’re just telling you that bricks are a good natural insulator. They hold in heat better than almost any other building material. Their ability to retain heat energy will push your energy bill down and help keep your home cool in summer and warm in winter. Perfect for the energy efficiency conscious company.
Aesthetic Flexibility – When you think of bricks, you probably think of the typical red, clay brick. That’s not the only option anymore! With new technologies and a better understanding of the world around us, manufacturers have begun to create bricks in all different colors, shapes, and sizes. You can have the classic aesthetic with the modern feel. It’s the best of both worlds.

Brick is a great foundation for any building, and as commercial masons, we can fully appreciate the benefits of brick. Ready to commission your commercial masonry project? Please contact our office today at 410-683-0650 or email us at mike@delpretemasonry.com. We serve Baltimore City, County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. Keep up with our blog for masonry related information, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.

Source: Go Brick

Posted in Blog, Brick